John Malkovich joins NBC's 'Crossbones'

A big screen legend is set to head for the high seas on NBC.

According to TV Line, John Malkovich has officially joined the cast of the upcoming pirate drama "Crossbones" on the network. The veteran actor will take on the iconic role of Captain Blackbeard in the new series.

The drama is set in 1715 on the Bahamian island of New Providence. In a nation brimming with thieves, outlaws and miscreant sailors, Malkovich's diabolical pirate Edward Teach, aka Blackbeard, reigns supreme. Blackbeard's collection of villains poses a mounting threat to international commerce, and highly skilled undercover assassin Tom Lowe is sent to cut the head off the snake. However, as the assassin gets closer to his target, an unusual bond is forged as Lowe admires Blackbeard's political ideals and unquenchable thirst for knowledge.

The 10-episode series comes from UK import Neil Cross, who created the hard-hitting Idris Elba cop drama "Luther," along with film producers Walter Parkes and Laurie MacDonald ("Gladiator"). Cross will write and executive produce the series in conjunction with Ted Gold ("Three Rivers").

For the two time Academy Award nominee, "Crossbones" marks his first foray into series television, having stuck with stage and film roles over his extensive 30 year career. Most recently, he can be seen on the big screen with roles in the spy comedy "Red 2" and zombie love story "Warm Bodies." Do you think the move to television is a wise decision for Malkovich?